Punjab faces challenges in boosting cotton cultivation efforts

Punjab's agriculture minister, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, has urged farmers to grow more cotton as planting season approaches. The government is encouraging the use of certified seeds from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU). However, the absence of genetically modified Bollgard-III seeds, which resist the pink bollworm pest, could impede these plans. In 2024, cotton cultivation dropped to its lowest in 30 years, covering only 98,000 hectares. Many farmers have switched to paddy, which provides a stable income, but this shift could worsen the state's already declining water table. As water levels fall deeply in Malwa, the National Institute of Hydrology has warned that continued decline could turn Punjab into a desert. Khudian has advised the agriculture department to boost cotton planting. PAU has recommended 87 hybrid cotton seed varieties for farmers in seven districts. A senior agriculture official reported that the matter of BT-III seeds was discussed with the Union agriculture minister to expedite the approval process. PAU's vice-chancellor, Dr. SS Gosal, noted they are still in the trial phase for these seeds and cannot share results yet. Farmers in Malwa prefer paddy for its easier cultivation and better returns. Cotton yields have decreased, making paddy more appealing. The average yield for cotton has dropped to 4-5 quintals per acre, compared to paddy's 24-26 quintals. Despite these challenges, the government hopes cotton planting will increase in the next kharif season due to reduced pest problems last year. To combat pink bollworm and white fly issues, the department has appointed 264 nodal officers across the affected districts.